The Charming Chow Chow Dog

How This Regal Breed Came About

Is the Chow Chow Right for You?

The Chow Chow dog breed is most known for their protective and at times aggressive nature.

2

Due to their bossy personality, they are not a great fit for children.

3

In order to become a family dog, Chow Chows must be trained and disciplined properly.

HISTORY

Pictured on ancient Chinese pottery dating back to 206 BC, the Chow Chow is one of the oldest dog breeds. Favored by Chinese emperors, the Chow Chow was a multi-purpose working dog, used for herding, cart pulling, guarding, and hunting. Introduced to Europe in the early 19th century, the name ‘Chow Chow’ is likely a derivative of a term for knick-knacks brought back from the far East.

quick facts

Size

Large

Lifespan

12 to 15 years

Hair Length

Long

Male Height

18-22 inches or 46-56 cm

Male Weight

45-70 pounds or 20-32 kg

Female Height

18-22 inches or 46-56 cm

Female Weight

45-70 pounds or 20-32 kg

Litter Size

5 pups per litter

APPEARANCE

Chow Chows are a big dog with an even bigger head, making them look like they could walk straight through a wall if they set their mind to it. They have a long, thick coat, making them great for colder climates. Their most distinguishing feature is their blue-black tongue, which is a dead giveaway that your dog is at least part Chow.

PERSONALITY

Only fit to live with children if properly socialized, the Chow Chow is generally a very strong willed, aggressive breed. Because they can be so bossy, this breed needs an overtly dominant owner, otherwise they may usurp your role as alpha and become a pain in the neck. Key to properly raising a Chow is to make sure there is no question in their mind that humans are in charge. If there is even a shred of doubt in your Chow Chow’s brain, they will run with it.

color

While the Chow Chow is known to come in solid red, cinnamon and cream, and black or blue, they can also be found in tan, gray, and sometimes even white (very rarely).